The Dutchess County Division of Youth Services is a strong advocate for children and families in our County. We promote the 40 Developmental Assets as an essential part of strengthening families and supporting them in their role of nurturing their children. In today’s society, families often face conflicting messages about parenting skills and priorities in order to develop a healthy environment for their children. The 40 Developmental Assets provide asset-building ideas for parents to promote family structure and values, a sense of belonging, encourage social competencies and connect their children and teens to other positive adult role models.

When we look at the importance of asset building activities and relationships, we recognize parental involvement is one of the major protective factors for the success and well-being of children. Parents spend an immense amount of time reinforcing positive behaviors and focusing on the quality of life for their children. The 40 Developmental Assets framework offers clear and dependable building blocks for youth to grow into healthy, positive, and responsible young adults. These assets are utilized in our everyday lives and can be supported by many adults in our community. The Assets concepts empower parents to develop diverse positive approaches towards shaping their family structure and building on their strengths.

40 Developmental Assets

External Assets show Support, Empowerment, Boundaries and Expectations, and Constructive Use of Time:

Support

Family Support – Family life provides high levels of love & support.

Positive Family Communication – Young person & his or her parent(s) communicate positively, & young person is willing to seek advice & counsel from parent(s).

Other Adult Relationships - Young person receives support from three or more non parent adults.

Caring Neighborhood - Young person experiences caring neighbors.

Caring School Climate - School provides a caring, encouraging environment.

Parent Involvement in Schooling – Parent(s) are actively involved in helping young person succeed in school.

Empowerment

Community Values Youth - Young person perceives that adults in the community value youth.

Youth as Resources

-Young people are given useful roles in the community.

Service to Others - Young person serves in the community one hour or more per week.

Safety - Young person feels safe at home, at school, and in the neighborhood.

Boundaries and Expectations

Family Boundaries - Family has clear rules and consequences and monitors the young person’s whereabouts.